Lion Links: 6/7/17

Welcome to Wednesday’s edition of Lion Links. The first team is off this weekend for an international break, though a few MLS games will still be played this weekend. It is a much needed rest after the Lions just finished up their third game in nine days. While the first teamers rest, you can catch OCB in action tonight at Orlando City Stadium for a 7:30 p.m. ET match against the Rochester Rhinos. Until then, let’s get some links in.

Ramos Red Card Appeal and Reactions

Talking points and reactions aplenty from the events surrounding Rafael Ramos’ red card decision. The club did announce that it will appeal the defender’s suspension — really no surprise there. As for Antonio Nocerino’s red, the club will not appeal his suspension, so he misses one match. Nocerino’s was unlikely to be overturned; he did have his studs up and made contact with the Fire player.

Instead of belaboring the point, Jason Kreis chose to focus on what the team did well in Sunday’s match. He, along with Will Johnson, praised the work rate and commitment of the team, hoping that this result can get the team firmly back on track.   

But remember, people, it’s a game. Yes, there is money involved, as well as passion and pride — but it’s still a game. Sadly, an OCSC fan decided it was a good idea to post the match referee’s business info. Remember, the referee is still a human being like you and me. We’ll get over this. There will be more games to watch and certainly more bad calls.  

The club released this statement in response to the posting of the official’s information: 

Vote Bendik/Spector Heroics for Save of the Week

If you saw the D.C. match last Wednesday night, you already know about “that save” that somehow saved OCSC three points at home. The effort to make the collective save summed up a memorable night for the Lions. It wasn’t the prettiest game you’ll see this season, but it was a gutsy display of heart and will. Follow the link to vote for the obvious winner this week.

Ellis-Hayden Scores a USL TotW Honor

Zach Ellis-Hayden scored his first professional goal last weekend against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. A nice goal to open up a professional account for sure. His contribution in the win in Pittsburgh was also good enough to earn himself a spot on the USL Team of the Week. Congrats to Ellis-Hayden on the three points and the personal recognition to boot.

Save of the Week: Part B

Along with Ellis-Hayden’s honors this week, Earl Edwards Jr. is up for Save of the Week. Edwards made sure all three points were coming home with OCB after making a full-stretch stop in the 90th minute against Pittsburgh on Saturday. Follow the link and help Orlando sweep the SotW in MLS and USL. If Orlando had an NASL team, it’d probably be up for Save of the Week, too. 

A New Southern Rival For OCSC?

Miami Beckham United’s four-year quest to land an MLS team may finally become a reality. The ownership group looks set to purchase the last remaining acres needed for a stadium. The group still needs MLS approval, but with the amount of second chances the league has afforded Becks ‘n’ friends, maybe the train is back on the tracks. We’ll see.

English Soccer Fan Fights Terrorists

A Millwall fan was a hero in the terror attack in London this week. The attackers entered a pub where Roy Larner was enjoying a drink and it prompted the Englishman to take action. He took on the terrorists with his bare hands, saving the lives of those in the pub. He is currently in the hospital recovering from his wounds, which are not life threatening.

Thanks for hanging out with us on Lions Links today. Enjoy your hump day and make sure to catch OCB in action tonight. Ciao!